Book promoting responsible political communication launched in Ghana

A new book has been launched in Accra, Ghana, to promote responsible political communication by encouraging political actors to focus on educating voters, promoting accountability and advancing national development. The 299-page book, titled “Voices for the Ballot: Electoral Communications in Ghana,” was written by Dr. Nana Sifa Twum. The book aims to contribute to national discussions on improving electoral communication, which Dr. Twum observed had largely been reduced to securing votes for political parties.

The book examines four communication theories, including the public sphere, media ownership and control, propaganda and the interaction of communication, while introducing a new concept known as the Communicative Alignment Theory. According to Dr. Twum, plans are underway to organise nationwide workshops and dialogues involving students, politicians, media practitioners and civil society organisations to promote effective electoral communication practices. This initiative seeks to engage various stakeholders in promoting responsible political communication.

The launch of the book was attended by several notable figures, including the Executive Secretary to the Speaker of Parliament, Prof. Damasus Tuurosong, who read a speech on behalf of the Speaker, Mr Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin. Prof. Tuurosong stated that voters deserved clear explanations of how political parties intended to create jobs, improve education and healthcare, manage public finances and tackle corruption. He also urged journalists to uphold professionalism by verifying information and ensuring accuracy and fairness in their reportage.

The President of the Institute of Public Relations (IPR), Ghana, Ms Esther A. N. Cobbah, commended the author for contributing to knowledge in electoral communication and strengthening the voice of the IPR Ghana locally and internationally. She explained that effective communication enabled political parties and candidates to understand voters’ concerns, explain their policies and encourage citizens to participate meaningfully in elections. Ms Cobbah highlighted the significant role that communication professionals play in ensuring credible electoral processes.

The book launch is part of a broader effort to promote responsible political communication in Ghana. Dr. Twum’s work aims to encourage political actors to prioritize national development and voter education over mere political power struggles. By introducing the Communicative Alignment Theory, the book provides a new framework for understanding and improving electoral communication in Ghana.

The nationwide workshops and dialogues planned by Dr. Twum will bring together various stakeholders to discuss and promote effective electoral communication practices. These events will provide a platform for students, politicians, media practitioners and civil society organisations to engage with the issues and share their perspectives. The goal is to foster a culture of responsible political communication that prioritizes national development and voter education.

The launch of “Voices for the Ballot: Electoral Communications in Ghana” marks an important milestone in the effort to promote responsible political communication in Ghana. The book’s author, Dr. Nana Sifa Twum, hopes that his work will contribute to a more informed and engaged citizenry, and ultimately, to a more robust and accountable democratic system in Ghana.

Key points

• The book "Voices for the Ballot: Electoral Communications in Ghana" aims to promote responsible political communication by encouraging political actors to focus on educating voters and advancing national development.